Prime Minister Anutin believes the strong relationship between Thailand and the US will allow tax discussions. He points out that once everything is resolved, they will appeal at the first opportunity, awaiting details from Supachai. As for the reasons behind Santi's resignation, he defers the question to Pipat.
At 16:05 on 24 July 2026 GMT+7 Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview at the Government House regarding the US announcement of a 12.5% tariff on Thai imports. He said this adjustment aligns with criteria. He has received initial reports that Thailand’s tariff is now 12.5%. He has urged relevant agencies to act, noting there is an issue related to forced labor that needs detailed examination to understand why this was not properly addressed earlier, but he believes that with the good relationship and status as good trading partners between the two countries, once all issues are resolved, Thailand will appeal to reduce the tariff at the earliest opportunity.
When asked if Thailand aims to revert the tariff to 10%, Anutin said, “We must negotiate to get the lowest possible rate, and we need to be fully prepared.” When asked about the timing of the next negotiation round, Anutin said details will come from a full report by Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthumpun, the head of Thailand’s delegation in talks with the US. She is currently returning from the US after accompanying him on an official visit to China and then traveling onward to the US. She is expected back soon.
Regarding the case of Santi Piyatat resigning as Assistant Minister to Deputy Prime Minister (Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport), Anutin explained that Santi submitted his resignation letter without stating reasons. The resignation has taken effect and is a personal right. When Santi assumed the assistant minister role, Anutin assigned him to assist Pipat. For reasons behind the resignation, Pipat likely knows more than Anutin, who only approved the resignation letter.